Duke offers peace talks to locals over rights to Blackwater fishing

A CENTURIES-OLD battle over the River Blackwater could be settled after an offer of peace talks from the millionaire British aristocrat who claims extensive rights over its fishing grounds.

The 12th Duke of Devonshire, Peregrine Andrew Morny Cavendish, owns spectacular Lismore Castle in west Waterford as well as 20 miles of the Blackwater between the vast Lismore estate and Youghal harbour.

His family’s claim over the river, which dates back to 1753, means he alone has the power to sell fishing licences for its abundant salmon. More controversially, he also claims rights to the river bed which means authorities in Youghal can not even put down moorings without his permission.